Der Schmerz
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We investigated the use of prescription and non-prescription (over-the-counter, OTC) analgesics and the associated risks in elderly patients with multiple morbidities. ⋯ About one third of the elderly patients took analgesics regularly or as needed. Despite the relatively high use of OTC analgesics, the proportions of duplicate prescription, medication overdoses, and adverse interactions due to OTC products was low.
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There is no sufficient evidence for opioids in the acute treatment of primary headache disorders. Controlled clinical trials using triptans as comparator are missing. ⋯ Chronic headache patients with opioid therapy often experience lengthy withdrawal treatment. On the basis of the current scientific data, opioids should be avoided in acute and prophylactic treatment of primary headache disorders.
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Pain is one of the most prevalent and distressing symptoms of patients suffering from cancer. In the field of oncology comprehensive expertise is pursued not only with respect to the administration of anticancer treatment but to all fields that relate to the needs of cancer patients. However, the results of studies have revealed persisting and relevant deficits in pain therapy in the setting of oncology. ⋯ This first survey of German oncologists exploring expertise in cancer pain therapy, showed similar problems in education and pain assessment as previous international studies. Despite the claimed responsibility for pain management, there were a small but relevant number of oncologists who showed serious therapeutic misinterpretations in case studies.